By Jamie Martin
Cover crops provide multiple environmental and economic benefits, from improving soil structure and water infiltration to reducing erosion, pests, and nutrient runoff. However, upfront costs and delayed economic returns often hinder widespread adoption among South Dakota farmers.
Researchers at South Dakota State University, Tong Wang and Hailong Jin, recently explored the role of cost share programs in overcoming these barriers. Their study analyzed data from 350 eastern South Dakota farmers collected between 2018 and 2021.
The results revealed that farmers enrolled in cost share programs adopted cover crops two to four years earlier than those who did not. "Additional costs, coupled with potential risks, may discourage many producers from cover crop adoption," said Tong Wang, an associate professor in South Dakota State University's Ness School of Management and Economics who has been conducting research on conservation agricultural practices for over a decade.
Programs such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Conservation Stewardship Program cover up to 75% of cover crop expenses, reducing the financial strain on producers. The study also found that only 1% of adopters discontinued cover crops, while many continued the practice even without funding.
Adoption rates rose notably after the 2019 floods, with 41% of affected farmers turning to cover crops for soil protection. Over time, 71% of adopters began paying costs independently, reflecting growing awareness of cover crop benefits.
The research identified a positive “spillover effect” where early participants inspired other farmers to adopt cover crops. According to Wang, these programs not only encourage early adoption but also foster a long-term cultural shift toward sustainable agriculture.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: National